4 Essential Steps to Take After a Storm in Chicagoland

Published by ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

When severe weather hits the Chicago area—whether it’s a thunderstorm, tornado, or wind-driven rain—the damage can be sudden and overwhelming. From downed trees in Evanston to flooded basements in Oak Park, Chicagoland homes and businesses are at risk.

If your property was recently impacted, here are four urgent actions to take to reduce further damage and restore safety.

1. Prioritize Safety

Before inspecting damage, make sure you and your family—or employees—are safe.

Stay alert for hazards like:

• Downed power lines
• Sharp debris like nails and broken glass
• Flooded basements (risk of electrocution!)

Do not:

• Enter a building with visible structural damage
• Use electrical appliances near standing water

If a tree or large debris has crashed through the structure, wait for professional help. When in doubt, stay out.

2. Document the Damage Thoroughly

Once it’s safe, start documenting storm damage immediately. Your insurance claim will rely on this information.

Steps:

• Take wide and close-up photos of interior and exterior damage
• Record videos showing water levels, damaged possessions, or broken materials
• Make a written inventory of losses

Important: Save multiple copies—physical and digital. Insurance companies may ask for this documentation more than once.

3. Cover Openings With Tarp or Plywood (If You Can Do So Safely)

Storms often leave holes in roofs, broken windows, or damaged doors. Temporary covering can help prevent further water intrusion.

If you must tarp a roof yourself (not advised unless experienced):

• Remove debris
• Use a thick tarp large enough to cover damaged sections
• Nail or screw down tarp to wood boards and secure firmly

For windows or doors:

• Use plywood to cover and seal off any exposed openings

Note: Let a professional restoration crew handle this when possible—it’s dangerous without the right tools or training.

4. Contact ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons Immediately

Time is critical. Waiting to act can cause:

• Mold within 24–48 hours
• Worsening structural damage
• Insurance complications

Why Choose Us:

• 24/7 local response across Chicago, Oak Park & River Forest, and the North Shore
• 40+ years of local experience
• IICRC-certified and fully insured
• Fast water extraction, structural drying, and damage repairs

📞 Call us anytime at (773) 376-1110 or Contact Us Online

FAQ: Storm Damage Recovery in Chicago

Q: What’s the first thing I should do after a storm hits my house?

A: Prioritize safety, document the damage with photos and video, and call a licensed restoration company like ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons.

Q: Should I tarp the roof myself?

A: Only if you’re trained and it’s safe. Most homeowners should leave this to professionals.

Q: How fast can mold start growing after storm damage?

A: Mold can begin within 24–48 hours, especially in humid or damp areas like basements.

Q: Will my insurance cover all the repairs?

A: Most homeowners insurance covers storm damage—but not flooding. Check your policy for water backup and flood coverage.

Q: Do you help with insurance paperwork?

A: Yes. Our team assists with documentation and works directly with your insurance carrier to speed up the process.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is Chicagoland’s trusted name in disaster restoration, proudly serving Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest, Evanston, Skokie, Glenview, and surrounding North Shore suburbs.

We’re a family-operated, IICRC Certified Firm with over 40 years of experience in:

• Water & Flood Damage Restoration
• Fire & Smoke Damage Cleanup
• Mold Remediation
• Post-Construction & Specialty Cleaning

We are recipients of the 2020 BBB Torch Award and the Skokie Business of the Year Award (Honorable Mention), and are proudly MBE/WBE certified.

📖 Read our book: RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset